Franklin "Todd" Curry

Franklin "Todd" Curry, 60, passed away on December 12, 2024, less than four months after being diagnosed with Melanoma. He had originally faced and beat this deadly cancer at the age of 25, and it took 35 more years for the disease to reappear and take down the son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and friend who was loved by so many.

Todd was the 4th of 6 children born to Franklin D and Barbara A (Franz) Curry on October 16, 1964. He grew up in Freeport and attended the Catholic Schools, graduating from Aquin High School in 1982. He was a member of the first State Championship football team at Aquin, being named as a first team linebacker in the Chicago Sun Times Little All-State and second team Catholic All American. Todd also wrestled, placing 6th in the state his senior year. School is also where he met the love of his life, Moira "Maime" Beggin.

After high school, Todd continued his football career and was a proud ATO brother at Monmouth College. He graduated in 1986 with a degree in Business Administration and joined the Helm Group (Civil Constructors) shortly after. He started in the Saw Shop and worked his way up to Superintendent and Project Manager throughout his years there. Always striving for excellence, Todd was devoted to his job and the people who worked for, and with, him. Even when hospitalized, he tried to get to work, so the crew would be ready for the next day.

Todd and Maime were married at St Thomas Aquinas Church in Freeport on February 18, 1989. Shortly after getting married, they purchased an old broken down farm house and 27 acres that had held memories for Todd from his childhood. He and his dad had broken horses and rode through those fields when he was young, making this land a magical place. Being able to own the land, remodel the house inside and out, all while raising three amazing children, was a dream to Todd. Knowing he took his last breath at the place he loved so much, brought peace to the family, as they tried to prepare for a life without him.

If you have ever seen It's a Wonderful Life, you know Todd was truly a modern day George Bailey. He was quiet, humble, never wanted to be the center of attention, and was not impressed by power or position. He always looked out for the underdog and was willing to do anything to help a friend. Todd was a Board member for Parkview Home and New Horizons Mental Health Center. He was also a member of the Elks Lodge, a place he enjoyed going to

unwind and relax with friends.

Todd is survived by his soulmate and wife of 35 years, Maime, and three children - Kelsey (Kody) Grove and their sons, Callum and Crew, who brought so much joy during these difficult months; Collin (Rachel) Curry and Clare Curry. He is also survived by his mother, Barbara and siblings Brian Curry, Doug (Laura) Curry, Melissa Curry and Chris (Jessica) Curry, and In-laws, Robert Beggin, Erin (Steve) Altheide, Shawn Beggin, Joe (Connie) Beggin, and Brendan Beggin, along with many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his Father Franklin Curry, brother Jeff Curry, Mother-in-law Madonna Beggin and brother-in-law Rory Beggin.

To honor Todd, he'd tell you to forget the flowers, and instead pay off some debt, invest in your future or buy a friend lunch. If you prefer to do more, memorials include Pheasants Forever (Todd loved hunting with his first dog, Bailey), Pegasus Special Riders (this organization offers therapeutic horseback riding for disabled children and adults) or Rogers Behavioral Health Foundation, (an organization that helps people overcome mental health issues and addiction.)

A visitation will be held Monday, December 16 from 3:00-7:00 PM at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home in Freeport, with a scripture service starting at 2:30 PM. On Tuesday, services will take place at St. Thomas Aquinas Church, with visitation from 9:30-10:30 AM, followed by a Memorial Mass and luncheon in the O'Neill Center. After the luncheon, family and friends are welcome to gather at the Elk's Lodge at 608 W Stephenson Street to share memories. A private burial will be held at a later date.